Simply Faithful: It’s worth it

I’ve worried and fretted over the numbers. I’ve argued with my husband over which things absolutely have to get done, and I’ve stayed late at work for almost a week.

So, I’m almost ready for vacation.

You’d think I’d be better at this, maybe at least a little less stressed, but I’m not. Each time I run myself ragged and question if it’s even worth it.

And each time the answer is yes.

It’s worth it to sit in a car for 22 hours while you desperately search for license plates from Hawaii and Alaska and sing along (badly) to all of Johnny Cash’s greatest hits. It’s worth it to pull into Mama’s driveway and know that my kids will sit at her table and eat cornbread and chicken fried steak, just like I ate at my grandma’s table.

It’s worth it to step outside the day-to-day and remember that there’s more to life and more to family than just what’s routine. It’s worth it to have an adventure. To see something new.

It’s worth it whether it’s 1,200 miles away or just exploring the next neighborhood over.It’s worth it.

Even though home is where I’m most comfortable, it’s not always the place I can best relax. Sometimes Sabbath is easier away from my to-do list. Sometimes I find God in the unexpected.

So, how can you make space for adventure this week? Is there a small step you can take to spend time with people in a different way? Some place you’ve been meaning to stop and check out?

-- If you want to see stunning professional pictures that take you on vacation (if only for a few seconds) visit fromwhereidrone.com and browse the gallery. It will help you appreciate the beauty of this world.

-- If you want to read about a dear friend of mine who spent a few weeks walking the Erie Canal -- and just recently returned from a trip to Thailand -- let me recommend stevemartaindale.com.

Safe travels, both near and far.

If you are interested, I’m offering a free email devotional called Erasing Perfectionism. Just visit SimplyFaithful.com by June 1 and slip your email address in the box on the upper right.

-- Marketta Gregory is a former religion reporter who can’t stop writing about what is sacred and holy. She is a native of Oklahoma but makes her home in Rochester, New York, with her husband, two crazy boys and one very vocal Pomeranian. Find more of her writing at SimplyFaithful.com or check out her book, “Simply Faithful: Finding the Sacred in Everyday Life.”